A Qatar Airways flight, QR1499, en route from Doha to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, took a terrifying turn on May 3rd as it encountered severe turbulence while flying over Somalia. The incident, which sent the cabin into disarray and left at least one passenger injured, has become a point of contention with conflicting reports emerging.
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The five-hour flight, operated by a leased Oman Air Airbus A330, was cruising at altitude when the plane hit a patch of extreme turbulence. While details remain unclear, social media was flooded with images of the aftermath. Photos depicted a chaotic scene inside the cabin, with meal trays scattered, oxygen masks deployed, and damaged ceiling panels. Social media reports allege that one passenger was significantly injured and required hospitalization, possibly in Nairobi, Kenya. However, these claims haven't been substantiated.
Qatar Airways confirmed the incident, acknowledging the severe turbulence and damage to the cabin. They emphasized that the seatbelt sign was illuminated during the encounter. Meanwhile, a puzzling wrinkle emerged in the story. Kenyan aviation authorities flatly denied the plane ever landed in Nairobi, contradicting some online reports.
The turbulence, likely caused by unforeseen weather conditions, underscores the unpredictable nature of air travel. While fortunately no serious injuries have been confirmed beyond the initial report, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety instructions and the constant vigilance of pilots and crew. The investigation into the cause of the turbulence and the extent of the damage is ongoing.